Roswell Police Arrest Three in Human Trafficking Operation
The Roswell Police Department (RPD) has announced the arrest of three individuals on charges related to human trafficking following an extensive multi-jurisdictional operation. This operation is part of the City of Roswell’s broader effort to combat human trafficking in Roswell and across Georgia.
Operation Details: On August 22, 2024, RPD, with the assistance of DeKalb County Police, Gwinnett County Police, Sandy Springs Police, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, conducted a coordinated enforcement operation. Search and arrest warrants were executed at seven locations throughout the Metro Atlanta area. The locations targeted include:
- 1006 Applegate Dr., Roswell
- 900 Jameson Pass, Alpharetta
- 6890 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Sandy Springs
- 1050 Hammond Dr., Sandy Springs
- 1105 Mount Vernon Hwy NE, Sandy Springs
- 4021 McGinnis Ferry Rd., Suwanee
- 2037 Weems Rd., Tucker
Arrests and Charges: The operation led to the arrest of three individuals on multiple charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and labor trafficking:
- Jeannot Joseph, 39, of Roswell
- Qin Zhen, 48, of Sandy Springs
- Jinpei Li, 72, of Norcross
Investigation Background: In March 2024, RPD’s Special Investigations Section began a probe into prostitution solicitation in Roswell through online channels. This investigation revealed a criminal enterprise operating out of various apartments across Roswell and the Metro Atlanta area, which offered illicit massage services and prostitution.
During the August 22 operation, investigators identified one additional victim, joining the two victims discovered earlier in the investigation. Significant evidence related to human trafficking activities was uncovered, prompting further investigation into these illicit activities.
RPD’s victim advocate and representatives from the anti-trafficking organization “Tapestri” were present to provide support and resources to the victims and will continue to assist as the investigation progresses.
This operation follows a similar crackdown in September 2023, which resulted in multiple arrests and the rescue of over 50 victims. Since Mayor Kurt Wilson and the Roswell City Council prioritized tackling human trafficking upon taking office in 2022, they have enacted new ordinances imposing stricter licensing and permitting requirements on massage and spa establishments within the city.
“There is no more important compact for a city with its residents than the compact of public safety and protecting those who cannot defend themselves,” Roswell Mayor Kurt Wilson said. “This operation is another vital step in the City of Roswell’s ongoing fight to eradicate human trafficking and illicit activities in our community.”
Chief of Police James Conroy emphasized the operation’s success as a step forward in protecting the vulnerable and seeking justice. The investigation is ongoing, with more charges and arrests expected.
